Samantha Sewell

On Friday, February 6th, 2026, the annual Vernon Winter Carnival Balloon Glow lit up the night sky — and truly outdid itself this year. A long-standing favourite for locals and visitors alike, this iconic event brought the community together in a way we’ve never seen before.

From the moment the gates opened, it was clear this was the busiest Balloon Glow Vernon has ever hosted. The energy was electric as families, friends, and carnival-goers filled the grounds, bundled up and ready to soak in every moment.

The evening featured mesmerizing fire dancers, adding warmth and drama to the crisp winter air, while food trucks lined the space with the irresistible smell of comfort food and sweet treats. A mini market showcased local vendors, giving attendees a chance to shop small and support our amazing community creators.

And of course — the true stars of the night — the hot air balloons. As they illuminated one by one, glowing against the dark winter sky, the crowd fell into awe. The combination of music, lights, laughter, and towering balloons created a truly magical atmosphere that reminded everyone why the Vernon Winter Carnival is so special.

This year’s Balloon Glow wasn’t just an event — it was an unforgettable experience, a celebration of winter, community, and the joy of coming together. If you’ve never attended, this is definitely one to add to your bucket list for next year.

The day after I posted my previous YLW video, Kelowna International Airport (YLW) opened its new terminal expansion. The update quickly created a lot of local discussion, excitement, and some concerns, so I decided to experience the changes for myself.

If you have travelled through YLW before, several parts of the airport experience have changed.

New Security Screening Experience

The most noticeable update is the brand-new security hallway. When we visited, we were on one of the last flights of the day, so security was quiet, but the redesigned space should help significantly during busy travel periods.

Airport staff now fully recognize the Sunflower Lanyard Program, which is an important accessibility improvement for travelers who may require additional support while moving through security.

Security screening itself is now much more streamlined:

• Electronics no longer need to be removed from bags


• Liquids can remain packed


• Shoes stay on, except for boots above the ankle

The process felt faster and less stressful compared to previous departures from YLW.

First Impressions of the New Terminal

Seeing the new terminal in person was impressive. I typically fly red-eye flights, so I have not yet experienced the space during daytime hours, but the expanded windows appear designed to offer excellent runway and mountain views during the day.

The terminal feels more modern, open, and comparable to larger Canadian airports while still maintaining YLW’s regional atmosphere.

Changes to Arrivals (Regional Flights)

Arrivals have also changed for regional flights. Previously, passengers exited into a quiet hallway area. Now, passengers arrive directly at a gate and follow standard airport signage toward baggage claim.

One notable difference is that baggage claim itself has not moved. Passengers now exit into the pre-security area on the opposite side of the airport, requiring travelers to walk through the full ticketing and check-in area to retrieve luggage.

During busy travel periods, this layout could potentially create congestion, particularly if check-in lines are long. Travelers with mobility considerations may wish to request wheelchair assistance, as the walk is longer and spans most of the pre-security terminal.

Overall Thoughts

The terminal expansion represents a significant upgrade for Kelowna International Airport:

• Improved security flow


• Better accessibility recognition


• Modernized terminal environment


• More standard arrival experience

It will be interesting to see how the airport performs during peak travel times and daytime departures.

Flying from Seattle to Kelowna: What to Expect on One of the Only Direct Routes

With more visitors coming to Canada, Mom and I are starting a new flying series. In this video, we explore flying from SEA (Seattle) to YLW (Kelowna), which is one of the only direct flights from the USA into Kelowna. If you’re considering this route, here are a few helpful things to know before you go.

Bring Your Own Pen
One small but important tip: pack your own pen. We hadn’t flown this route in quite some time, and the flight attendants only had two pens available for over five people, including themselves. This caused delays, as some passengers had to fill out their declaration cards after landing instead of during the flight.

Filming Restrictions at Customs
Due to federal law, we weren’t able to film inside the customs area at Kelowna International Airport.

What Customs Is Like at YLW
Kelowna’s customs area is extremely small, with only four agent booths. While we were there, only two agents were working, and the wait time was about 15–20 minutes.
It’s also important to note that there is currently no accessible lane or wheelchair lane in the customs area.

Washrooms in the Customs Area
There is a small washroom located within the customs area. The women’s washroom is a single-stall facility, so it can line up during busier times.

Connecting to Another Canadian City
If you are connecting onward to another Canadian destination, you will need to collect your baggage and re-check it at a ticketing desk after clearing customs. This can impact your connection time, so be sure to factor that into your travel plans.

Baggage Claim Before Clearing Customs
Customs baggage arrives at a separate baggage claim area before you clear customs. Make sure you collect your luggage before exiting through the final door, as you won’t be able to go back once you leave the secure area.

Arriving in Kelowna
Once you’ve cleared customs, you’ll enter the main pre-security area of the terminal—welcome to Kelowna.

Pick-Up and Transportation Tips
YLW’s pick-up area is located on the far side of the terminal. If you’re being picked up by family or friends, you may want to walk inside the airport to reach the correct pick-up zone.
If you’re using a taxi, rideshare service, or a ski resort shuttle, exit through the door right by baggage claim for the most convenient access.

2025 Downtown Kelowna Holiday Light Up.
This year we unveiled our new 40-foot Christmas tree, creating the perfect backdrop for an evening filled with community, celebration, and holiday spirit.

Sonia and Wyeth came out to enjoy the festivities and made time to visit both Santa and the Grinch. The event saw a wonderful turnout, making it one of the most memorable light ups to date.

A highlight of the night was a surprise proposal on stage, and we are thrilled to share that she said yes.

? Our 4th Annual Trip to Davidson Orchard ? Today we celebrated one of our favourite yearly traditions — our visit to Davidson Orchard! A heartfelt thank you to all the parents who joined us, helped transport backpacks, and carried pumpkins big and small. Your presence and partnership make days like this so special. In the Reggio Emilia approach, learning extends far beyond the classroom walls. Excursions like this allow children to connect with the land, see where their food comes from, and experience community in a living, tangible way. The orchard becomes a classroom of wonder — filled with questions, discoveries, and sensory experiences that can’t be replicated indoors. We return inspired, a little muddy, and full of stories to revisit together in the days ahead. ?✨ Shout to to Ms. Davidson who not only celebrated her first Davidson trip with Raising Stars but her first EVER city bus ride!

Local tourism was celebrated at the Sundog Festival in Vernon, BC, where culture, community, and creativity were highlighted. The festival was attended to showcase how art, music, and food bring people together in the Okanagan. The Vernon Sundog Festival was experienced through vibrant performances, artisan markets, and family-friendly (FREE) activities, with the goal of encouraging visitors and residents alike to support local events. By attending the Sundog Festival, the importance of tourism in Vernon, British Columbia, was promoted while community spirit was captured on film.

The annual Grindrod Garlic Festival was held on Sunday, August 24th in Enderby, BC, celebrating a North Okanagan tradition. Garlic, artisans, and local farms were showcased, and community support was encouraged. A wonderful way to experience Okanagan culture!

Today we visited Splash Down Vernon with Sonia and Wyeth, and it turned out to be such a fun surprise! Going in, I wasn’t too optimistic about what slides Sonia could ride—or even what Wyeth could go on—but I was pleasantly surprised. With an adult, they were able to enjoy all but 5 of the slides, which made it a fantastic experience for everyone...even the little.

? About Splash Down Vernon:
Splash Down Vernon is a family-friendly waterpark in Vernon, British Columbia, featuring exciting waterslides, a lazy river, a splash pad for younger kids, and plenty of shaded picnic spots. It’s the perfect summer activity for families, kids, and anyone looking to cool off while having fun.

? Pro Tip: The last 4 hours of the day are offered at a discounted rate, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy all the rides and attractions without missing out.

We were able to experience everything at the park, and it felt like such a great way to support local attractions in Vernon. Whether you’re visiting the Okanagan or looking for fun things to do in Vernon with kids, Splash Down is a must-do summer activity!

On July 25th, the Raising Stars Preschool Adventure Program took a nature-filled trip to Coldstream Park! ?? Our journey began down a scenic forest path leading to a wide open field filled with trees, a peaceful creek, and shady beaches perfect for exploration. The children had a wonderful time building log bridges, skipping rocks, and engaging in imaginative play among nature. Coldstream Park offers an ideal setting for outdoor learning, risky play, and nature-based education—core elements of our Reggio-inspired preschool programming. But the adventure didn’t stop there! Toward the end of our visit, we spotted a bear nearby. Following our safety protocols, we calmly and safely evacuated the park—an important real-world learning moment for children and staff alike. ? This unforgettable day reflects our commitment to safe, meaningful, and enriching early childhood experiences.  #RaisingStarsPreschool #OutdoorLearning #ColdstreamPark #NaturePlay #PreschoolAdventure #BearEncounter #ReggioInspired #EarlyChildhoodEducation #RiskyPlay #FieldTrip #PreschoolLife

As part of the Raising Stars Preschool Summer Adventure Program, a visit was made to Armory Park in Vernon, BC. Known for its spacious layout and family-friendly design. The playground area features a large sandy surface, making it ideal for sensory play and physical activity. Children explored two swings, a fun climbing structure, one-of-a-kind slides (one slide has a slant & curb), and a tunnel perfect for imaginative games and movement-based learning. Adding to the excitement, an Unplug and Play toy chest was discovered on the field—filled with free-access toys that encourage screen-free fun, collaboration, and creativity. This visit was part of our Summer Adventurer Program, which helps connect preschoolers with local parks, nature, and their community through hands-on, outdoor exploration.

Raising Stars Summer Adventure Program spent the day exploring Sovereign Park and Beach — a hidden, tucked-away shoreline far from the hustle and bustle of the busy tourist season. This peaceful beach offered the perfect setting for a calm and engaging day of outdoor discovery. Our young adventurers explored gentle walking trails surrounded by nature, shaded picnic tables, a large open field, and convenient public washrooms. Along the way, we encountered incredible wildlife — including a deer and several Canadian geese — igniting curiosity and wonder in the children. At Raising Stars, safety is always our highest priority. During water play, children are only allowed in shallow areas, with water reaching approximately waist height. A teacher is always within arm’s reach to ensure active supervision and support. While the water may appear deeper in photos or videos due to floating or swimming movement, strict safety measures are followed. If families provide life jackets, they are used during water activities. We maintain a low 1:5 teacher-to-child ratio to ensure every child is carefully monitored and supported throughout the day. The Raising Stars Summer Adventure Program blends Reggio-inspired, play-based learning with meaningful outdoor experiences. Sovereign Park and Beach offered a perfect natural classroom where children could explore, imagine, and make lasting summer memories.

On July 18th, the children in our Raising Stars Preschool Summer Adventure Program spent a joyful and enriching day at Creekside Park. This field trip was part of our ongoing commitment to providing hands-on, meaningful early childhood experiences that go beyond the classroom. During our visit, the children were fully immersed in outdoor play and nature exploration. They enjoyed splashing in the water, flipping over sticks, collecting leaves, and even discovering the occasional insect. These seemingly simple activities sparked excitement, curiosity, and endless questions—exactly what child-led learning should look like. Thanks to our low 1:5 teacher-to-child ratio, outings like this are not only possible—they’re powerful. With full visibility and attention on every child, we’re able to offer opportunities for what’s known as “risky play” in early childhood education. While the term may sound concerning at first, risky play is an essential part of child development. It allows children to challenge themselves in safe, supervised settings where they learn to assess risk, build resilience, and develop both confidence and independence. Whether it's balancing on logs, navigating uneven terrain, or experimenting with water flow, these moments build critical thinking and problem-solving skills that can’t be taught through worksheets or screens. Equally important are the benefits of nature play. Research shows that time in nature supports mental wellness, lowers stress, and improves focus and emotional regulation in young children. It also strengthens language development, social skills, and creativity. At Raising Stars Preschool, we believe that nature is not just a backdrop for learning—it’s an essential part of it. Children who engage with the natural world are more connected, empathetic, and eager to explore. We are proud to offer a Reggio Emilia–inspired preschool program that embraces real-world experiences and the natural environment as active partners in education. Our day at Creekside Park was a perfect example of our philosophy in action: children learning through play, exploration, and discovery—guided by caring educators who see each child as capable, curious, and full of potential.

On July 2nd, 2025, Raising Stars Preschool’s Summer Adventure Program visited Black Rock Park in Vernon, BC. Nestled above the city, Black Rock Park offers breathtaking panoramic views of Vernon and the surrounding hills.

Our preschoolers enjoyed a fun-filled day outdoors—sharing a picnic at the two picnic tables, exploring the grassy hills, and engaging in nature-based play. From catching grasshoppers to finding walking sticks, it was a perfect day of outdoor learning and exploration.

This visit is part of our ongoing Summer Adventure Program, designed to connect children with nature, build social skills, and foster curiosity in safe, supervised outdoor environments.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or Vernon local looking for kid-friendly places to explore, Black Rock Park is a hidden gem for families and early childhood programs alike.